Test and try the latest Canon kit, hear the experts talk, and tread the product-packed aisles at photokina 2018, from 26 to 29 September. photokina has been one of the world’s foremost photographic events since its inception in 1950, attracting over 190,000 visitors from 130 countries in its last edition, set in five expansive halls at the Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany.

This is the final September edition before it shifts to become an annual event held in May, from 2019. Join us in the Canon space, where you’ll find the latest kit, expert advice and a programme of talks on the Spotlight Stage. Here’s what not to miss at photokina 2018.

1. Capture the future with the EOS R system

The future of photography and filmmaking is here, and now is your chance to touch and try it for yourself. At photokina 2018, you are invited to test Canon’s highly anticipated full-frame mirrorless EOS R system.

Come to Canon’s EOS R areas to experience for yourself what three decades of EOS innovation can achieve, with touch and try stations, an exciting range of shooting subjects and inspiring galleries of the images created with the revolutionary EOS R system.

2. See your heroes

Put yourself in safe hands

See and hear your photography heroes as they speak live on Canon's Spotlight Stage. Sit, listen and let our Canon Ambassadors give you a glimpse of their experience with the Canon EOS R system, and more…

3. Learn product photography techniques

On 28 September at 1pm, Canon Ambassador Eberhard Schuy will reveal his lighting secrets and special effect techniques in his talk, titled Creative Product and Still Life Photography. Find him on the Communities Stage, where a programme of photographers will be hosted, offering hard and fast photography tips and tricks.

4. Find out what professional photo printers can do

On the Canon stand, you’ll find a Canon's range of professional photo printers. Come to the printing stations to see how our gallery-quality printers can transform your digital files into beautifully detailed, precision-coloured prints. Enjoy an inspiring gallery of photography in print, and speak with pro printer experts to expand your knowledge of the craft.

5. Discover why ‘Good photos aren’t enough!’

Wedding photographers and Canon Ambassadors Julia and Gil will be giving a talk called 'Good Photos Aren't Enough!' to help, to help you find new ways to differentiate yourself, your business and your brand in an increasingly crowded marketplace. The pair of globetrotting, highly sought-after photographers have a stunning portfolio of couples and wedding photography.

But, as they recognise, even a successful portfolio isn’t enough – you need to conjure that 'little bit more'. See them speak on the Professionals Stage on 28 September.

6. See award-winning work

At the heart of photokina is the equipment, but there’s also the chance to see the world’s best examples of what can be achieved with these tools of the trade. Attend the exhibition of the ProfiFoto New Talent Award – powered by Canon – in Passage 4/5 to see 20 award-winning young photographers’ photo projects. This twice-yearly photo competition for talented aspiring photographers attracts thousands of entries competing for a €3,000 prize and publication.

The spectrum of award-winning projects covers subjects and styles from hard reportage to computer-constructed subjects, and elaborate staging to personal insights.

Other awards at photokina include the ‘Glanzlichter’ Highlights of Nature Photography 2017 exhibition; the announcement and exhibition of the German Youth Photography Award 2018; the 2nd Annual Photography Contest Perspectives @ photokina 2018; and Tim Flach’s Endangered exhibition.

7. Take a filmmaking masterclass

At the Motion Stage, find out everything you need to know about modern filmmaking: how to transition from stills to moving images, and how to master a variety of cinema kit components. You’ll hear from the new breed of filmmakers as well as the old guard in this mini moving-image masterclass.

Canon’s photokina space can be found in Hall 3.2 at the Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany, between 26 and 29 September 2018. photokina is open 10am-6pm every day except Friday, when it’s open until 9pm. We look forward to seeing you there.